The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) and the National Institute of Health have published the final version of the clinical guidelines for chronic COVID-19 syndrome, also known as post-acute sequelae of COVID-19. These guidelines are based on research conducted from August 2022 to December 2025 and incorporate the latest domestic and international findings. The aim is to provide evidence-based recommendations for diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of chronic COVID-19 syndrome in Korea. The guidelines reflect input from global authorities such as WHO, NIH, NICE, and ESCMID, ensuring alignment with international standards.
The guidelines impact healthcare providers, patients experiencing long-term COVID-19 symptoms, and policy makers. A new Korean-specific scoring system for diagnosis is introduced, using nine key symptoms with weighted scores; a total score of 13 or higher classifies a patient as having chronic COVID-19 syndrome. The guidelines also detail symptom-specific diagnostic and treatment methods for 13 symptoms, including fatigue, loss of smell/taste, chest pain, and cognitive impairment. Preventive strategies, such as early antiviral use and vaccination, are emphasized, while recommendations for other medications are clarified. These updates aim to support clinical decision-making in primary and specialized care settings.
The research project began in August 2022 and will continue through December 2025, with the final guidelines published in April 2024. Earlier in 2024, a draft was released, but the current version includes more comprehensive recommendations and a refined classification system. The guidelines are accessible via the KDCA Infectious Disease Portal and the official journal Infection & Chemotherapy. Key changes include updated recommendations for antivirals, anticoagulants, steroids, and antifibrotic agents, reflecting the latest clinical evidence. Ongoing research and feedback will continue to inform future updates.
Frequently asked questions include: Who should use these guidelines? They are intended for healthcare professionals treating patients with persistent symptoms after COVID-19 infection. What are the main diagnostic criteria? Patients are classified as having chronic COVID-19 syndrome if they score 13 or higher on the Korean-specific symptom scale three months post-infection. Are there changes in treatment recommendations? Yes, the guidelines clarify when to use antivirals, vaccines, anticoagulants, steroids, and antifibrotic agents, with a focus on individualized patient assessment.
The finalization of Korea’s clinical guidelines for chronic COVID-19 syndrome is a major step in standardizing care for patients with long-term symptoms. The introduction of a Korean-specific scoring system for diagnosis, along with updated and clarified treatment recommendations, provides practical tools for clinicians. The guidelines’ alignment with international standards and their publication in both the KDCA portal and a peer-reviewed journal enhance their credibility and accessibility. This evidence-based approach is likely to improve patient outcomes and inform future policy decisions.